Rudiger completes Real Madrid’s dramatic comeback against Roma

Real Madrid staged a remarkable late comeback to defeat Roma 4-3 at the Stadio Olimpico, scoring three times in the closing stages after falling 3-1 behind.

Antonio Rudiger headed the winning goal from an Arda Guler corner, completing a turnaround that appeared unlikely after Roma had dominated large parts of the match.

The hosts made the stronger start and deservedly moved in front after 20 minutes. Matias Soule created the opening for Marten de Roon, whose long-range shot took a deflection before beating Thibaut Courtois.

Real Madrid responded through Kylian Mbappe, who marked his 100th UEFA Champions League appearance with an equaliser. His effort was also deflected, looping over Roma goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini and into the net.

Roma returned to the front after the interval when a mistake in the Real Madrid defence gave Donyell Malen the opportunity to score from close range. The finish took another deflection on its way past Courtois.

Malen doubled his tally soon afterwards. Soule opened up the visiting defence with a perfectly timed pass, allowing the Dutch forward to complete the move with a straightforward finish and put Roma 3-1 ahead.

Real Madrid looked set to suffer defeat, but began an extraordinary recovery in the final stages. Carlos Espi pulled one goal back in the 83rd minute, converting after Gollini had parried Endrick’s initial header.

Endrick then brought the scores level two minutes later, powering a header into the net from another dangerous delivery by Guler.

The comeback was completed when Rudiger rose highest to meet Guler’s next corner, sending his header home and securing victory for the visitors.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho admitted Roma had been the superior team for much of the contest, while praising his side’s decisive spell late on.

“Two games in one. Roma were superior in every way, but then we had 20 minutes with a Real Madrid side that was impossible to stop,” Mourinho said.

He also singled out Soule for the problems he created on the wing and the influence he had on Roma’s attacking display.

Mourinho was less satisfied with Real Madrid’s defending after half-time, particularly the error that allowed Malen to score his second goal.

“In the second half, we were more organised, but we conceded a ridiculous second goal,” he said.

“With the score at 3-1, the game was over, but Roma’s players were.”

Mourinho also questioned whether Roma had the tactical and physical resources to sustain such a demanding approach for the entire match.

The result extended Roma’s winless run in European competition to five games, comprising three draws and two defeats. It was also their fourth loss in their past six European home matches.

Real Madrid strengthened their impressive record against Italian opposition, registering their 20th victory in their last 22 Champions League games against clubs from Italy.